Grand Final Game Preview
Today is the day.
Matatū have flown north to Hamilton to take on the unbeaten Chiefs Manawa in the Super Rugby Aupiki 2023 Grand Final in what promises to be the crown in the jewel of this year’s competition.
Matatū are flying high after defeating the Blues in Auckland last weekend and will take plenty of confidence into today’s clash.
Last time these teams met, it was all Matatū at the start and the end of the game, with the South Island team breaking away early to lead 19-8 early in the first half. The middle period of the game saw the Chiefs take over and score 38 points before Matatū scored three quick tries at the end, showcasing their ‘never-say-die’ attitude.
The Chiefs forward pack has been one of their strike weapons this year and is something Matatū are aware of heading into today’s game. Matatū fullback Renee Holmes said,
“They’re going to look to use their forwards a lot again this week like they did against us last time, they’re going to look to maul, they’ll look to go through the scrum, but that’s exactly what we’re expecting.”
From not winning a game last year to going all the way to the grand final this year, the gravity of the turnaround of this side is not lost on Holmes.
“It means a lot to be in the Super Rugby Aupiki final. I think a lot of people didn’t believe we could do it, but I always believed within our group that we were going to be in this final so it’s pretty special to get past that line and be there this weekend.”
Players to Watch
Chey Robins-Reti – a hattrick last weekend against the Blues.
Lucy Jenkins – Last week’s MVP and has made 61 tackles in the last 4 weeks.
Grace Brooker – a powerhouse in the midfield who can run and kick. She has played a huge part in Matatū’s success in her comeback season.
Game Details
Matatū v Chiefs Manawa | Sat 25 March | 2:05pm | FMG Stadium, Hamilton
LIVE on Sky Sport 1